NA election code of conduct to come into effect tomorrow

KATHMANDU: The Election Commission (EC) has announced the enforcement of the election code of conduct, effective from January 16, for the upcoming National Assembly election.

The decision covers the period from January 16 to 26 and encompasses all citizens, agencies, and officials.

According to the EC, Section 1 of the Election Code of Conduct, 2079, and Section 22 of the Election Commission Act will be applicable during this time frame, coinciding with the National Assembly election scheduled for January 25.

As outlined in the code of conduct, the use of public resources and properties for or against any election candidate is strictly prohibited.

Distortion of election-related content and information, as well as the use of government schools or publications for electioneering, are also not allowed.

Furthermore, the code restricts the production, sale, distribution, and publicity of materials bearing election symbols or party logos.

Additional prohibitions include the use of children, character assassination in election-related publicity involving women, senior citizens, disabled individuals, and members of sexual and gender minorities.

The Election Commission has also barred various activities during this period, including processions, general assemblies, corner meetings, and election promotional activities.

Prohibited actions encompass spreading false, misleading, or malicious information on social media, engaging in hate speech, and insulting other candidates to influence the election.

Since the implementation of the election code of conduct, maintaining the confidentiality of voters, refraining from disputes with voters or election staff at polling stations, and avoiding actions that compromise the impartiality and fairness of the election are mandatory.

The EC has also imposed restrictions on ministers in federal and provincial governments, along with public office bearers involved in the election campaign with permission from the commission.

They are reminded of the silence period and are restricted from utilizing government resources during this time.